Visit Iceland in Autumn travel guide

You have finally decided to visit Iceland. But you can’t decide when it is the best time to visit the land of fire and ice. Most people choose summer because the weather is as good as it can get and the days are long. Others choose winter to witness the snowy landscapes. But there are some very good reasons to visit Iceland in Autumn. Here is why September or October might be the best time to travel around Iceland.

Autumn colors

Iceland is simply beautiful with autumn colors. The colors of fall usually peak at mid-September. The vegetation is changing from bright green into wonderful shades of yellow, orange and red. Add the black lava formations and you have an amazing combination. But that doesn’t stick for long.

Mild weather

Obviously the best weather conditions are in the summer. However in September the temperature is around 5-10°C (41-50°F) and in October the average temperature is around 2-7°C (36-44°F). Although it can get really windy or rainy with a little bit of luck you can have some wonderful sunny days to stay out all day and do your hikes. Also you have a very good mix of daylight hours and darkness. And darkness in Iceland means Aurora Borealis.

Northern lights a.k.a Aurora Borealis

You don’t have to visit Iceland in the winter to view the magical Northern lights. In fact September and October might be the best time to see Aurora Borealis. It starts showing up in September. Combine this with the mild weather and it is very likely to have a clear sky! No clouds preventing you from seeing the green and purple colors dancing in the sky! Also the temperatures don’t get really low so you can spend more time outside watching the northern lights. Don’t forget to bring warm clothes with you though.

Less tourists

Autumn is considered to be off season and therefore less tourists visit Iceland. Which means more space for you! With fewer people around you can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, mountains and waterfalls of Iceland much better. And if you are a photographer it will be easier to get photos without people.

Cheaper flights and accommodation

Less crowds means cheaper flights and cheaper accomodation. Prices in accomodation go do in September and since Iceland is an expensive country your pocket can benefit from the fewer tourists.

To sum it up there are many advantages of travelling in Iceland in September and October and they can definitely considered to be good months to go to Iceland.

Here is a list with the must see mountains in Iceland to give you a little more help.